How to choose quality soccer cleats for goalkeepers?

Although goalkeepers are increasingly involved directly in the game and have more roles on the field than just catching the ball, they should choose their cleats with their position in mind. Rather than speed, comfort and foot protection are more important for them, which is provided by sturdier models, often from higher-end brands. You can take inspiration from well-known professional goalkeepers. Of course, the type of surface plays a big role, but this article primarily focuses on natural grass.

Comfort and stability

While for a forward, lightness and speed are the most important, goalkeepers generally prefer cleats that provide enough comfort and maximum foot protection. They should be stable, yet flexible, so they fit the foot perfectly. It is also important that they allow for good jumping and pushing off, regardless of the weather. Recently, there has been a strong emphasis on the configuration of the studs, which ensures maximum grip on the grass, even when the goalkeeper needs to quickly spring into action to catch the ball before the opponent.

Quality models from well-known brands

Just like with goalkeeper gloves, well-known brandsguarantee satisfaction like Nike, Adidas, or Puma. If we were to name the TOP 10 cleats for goalkeepers, we would definitely choose from the Nike Phantom and Tiempo collections, Adidas Copa Sense or ACE, or Puma Future. Recently, the innovative Puma evoPower in various designs has also become very popular.

If you want to be inspired by the best footballers 100 percent, we recommend looking at models from exclusive lines, which guarantee the highest quality materials and precise craftsmanship. However, there is a catch; many professionals have a preference for cleats from limited editions or older versions, which are no longer produced but are comfortable to wear or match with their jerseys. We definitely wouldn't recommend buying them second-hand unless you just want to display them at home. Even more affordable options can be good. It depends on your level and how often and on what surface you catch.

It depends on the surface and the weather

Unfortunately, there are no universal best cleats for goalkeepers. However, the foundation that should not be missing for any footballer or goalkeeper is cleats marked FG, or firm ground cleats as well as soft ground studs (SG-PRO), which have replaced the previously used studs. The first type is suitable for dry or slightly wet grass and you will mainly use it in spring and summer. It features a larger number of shorter plastic studs, which differ only in layout, depending on whether they are focused more on stability and tension balance or on speed and agility.

On the other hand, you definitely cannot do without soft ground studs as a goalkeeper during the winter months, when the playing surface is wet and slippery.The reason is their longer, usually metal studs, which dig deep into the ground. They minimize the risk of slipping, ensure grip, and provide sufficient support for the feet. Moreover, you can usually change the spikes. However, all these advantages may come at the expense of comfort and also a higher price, which reflects the materials used.

Leather or synthetic